From the Editor’s Desk

May 09, 2025

By Patricia Pereira
Each year, on the Fourth Sunday of Easter, the Church celebrates Good Shepherd Sunday, a day that is also marked as the World Day of Prayer for Vocations. It is a day when we pause to reflect with gratitude on the gift of vocations, especially to the priesthood and religious life. In a world grappling with noise, distractions and endless options, the call to serve as shepherds of God’s people is more relevant—and more urgent—than ever.

Here in Malaysia, we are blessed with priests and religious who have tirelessly given of themselves to serve the People of God. From urban cathedrals to rural chapels, from school classrooms to hospitals, and among the marginalised and migrants — our shepherds walk alongside us. Many have left behind careers, comforts and even countries, responding instead to the quiet but insistent voice of the Lord: “Follow Me.”

We give thanks for their dedication, sacrifices, and unwavering faith. Often uncelebrated, their work forms the heartbeat of our parishes and missions. Especially in the years of the COVID-19 pandemic, many priests and religious went beyond their call of duty to be present to the faithful — offering online Masses, food aid, spiritual guidance and emotional support. For this, and so much more, we remain eternally grateful.

Yet today, as we honour them, we must also ask: who will take up the mantle tomorrow?

Malaysia, like many parts of the world, is witnessing a growing scarcity in vocations. Our dioceses face aging clergy and religious communities. Many parishes are served by only one priest, some juggling several communities. The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are indeed few.

Pope Francis, who often spoke from the heart on vocations, reminded us: “The priesthood is not a profession, it is a vocation, a calling. It is a response to the loving gaze of the Lord.” He cautioned against reducing the priesthood to mere function or career, emphasising that “priests are not social workers or officials. They are shepherds in the image of Jesus, the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for his sheep.”

He also urged religious men and women to live their charisms with joy and courage, saying: “The consecrated life is not about survival; it is about new life. It is a sign of joy and hope in a world that sorely needs it.”

These words are not just meant for those already in ministry — they are an invitation to all of us. Parents, especially, have a crucial role. Too often, we encourage children to pursue ambitions that promise financial security or social prestige, yet overlook the nobility of a life spent in service to God and His people. Parents must keep the door open. Give your children the freedom and space to discern whether God may be calling them to something greater—something eternal.

To the young people: Do not be afraid to ask the deeper questions. The world may offer comfort and convenience, but it cannot satisfy the deepest longings of your heart. If you feel a stirring to serve, a yearning to walk with people in their joys and sorrows, a desire to bring Christ into the world in a radical way— do not ignore it. Speak to your parish priest, your youth coordinator, a religious sister or brother. Pray. Listen. Trust.

There is no “perfect” candidate for a vocation — only hearts that are open. God does not call the qualified; He qualifies the called.

As we celebrate Good Shepherd Sunday, let us recommit ourselves to praying for vocations. Parishes, schools and families must nurture a culture of discernment. We must create spaces where young people can reflect on God’s call, unafraid of judgment or pressure.

The Church in Malaysia needs shepherds. We need priests to celebrate the Eucharist, forgive sins, baptise new life, anoint the suffering, and accompany us in faith. We need religious brothers and sisters to teach, serve, and witness to the Gospel in radical ways. We need missionaries of hope, joy, and compassion.

Let us not forget what Pope Francis once said: “A vocation flows from the heart of God and blossoms in the good soil of faithful people.” May we be that faithful soil. May we give thanks for those who have answered the call, and encourage others to do the same.

Let us pray for more shepherds who will guide us, walk with us, and remind us always of the voice of the Good Shepherd — calling us by name, leading us to life in abundance.

Lord of the harvest, send us holy priests and religious for our Church in Malaysia. Amen.